Cash means the shows can now go on

FANS of live theatre and music in the Upper Yarra have been guaranteed another year of top quality touring productions.
The Upper Yarra Arts Centre has received a $30,000 cash grant from the State Government to help fund the centre’s professional performing arts program.
Cindy Smith, the Shire of Yarra Ranges Yarra Valley regional arts coordinator, said the centre was delighted to have received the funding.
“This is what we were hoping for and we are very glad to get it,” she said. “The funding means 10 to 15 quality productions will be presented by the Upper Yarra Arts Centre and the shire’s cultural services team.”
Ms Smith said the real benefit of the cash boost would go to local theatre and music audiences.
“It allows us to present professional shows with big names from stage and screen that are affordable – often half the price of shows in Melbourne – right on our doorstep,” she said. Ms Smith said the centre was hoping to present a diverse variety of productions in the next 12 months, including a production of the award-winning play Educating Rita and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Road Show. “There will be something for everyone,” she said.
“Without this funding we wouldn’t be able to afford these productions and we appreciate the support we get.”
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato announced the funding, which is part of Arts Victoria’s Touring Victoria program, last week.
“It is vital to provide people living in areas outside of metropolitan Melbourne with the opportunity to access a diverse range of artistic and cultural experiences,” she said.
“The Upper Yarra Arts Centre is a much loved community facility in the heart of Warburton and I am thrilled that the State Government is again showing its support for this venue by providing additional funding.”
Ms Lobato said having a vibrant arts culture provided an opportunity for young people in the district to get involved in creative projects as well as providing a welcome boost to tourism in the Upper Yarra.
“There are so many benefits to the entire community by having an active arts centre,” she said.
“It is one of the signs of a healthy community for arts to be an integral component of community life.”